Last Name Stieb

Learn more about the origin of the last name Stieb

The meaning and origin of the last name Stieb

The surname Stieb is of Germanic origins, derived from the Middle High German word "stab," which means 'staff' or 'stick.' Initially, it might have been an occupational name for someone who made or used staffs, such as shepherds or soldiers. Alternatively, it could have been a nickname for a robust or strong individual, suggesting one who was sturdy and stable, much like a staff. The spelling variations of this surname include Steib, Steebe, Stieber, Stiebner, etc., which reflect its Germanic origins and the phonetic changes that occurred over time in different regions. In modern times, individuals bearing the name Stieb can be found predominantly in Germany, as well as among German diaspora communities around the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Stieb

The surname Stieb is primarily found in German-speaking regions, including Germany and Switzerland, where it originated. It also has a significant presence in neighboring countries like Austria, Liechtenstein, and parts of France (Alsace). In the United States, a notable concentration of individuals with the Stieb last name can be found in Pennsylvania, due to German immigration during the 18th and 19th centuries. The distribution of the surname Stieb is also noticeable in Canada, particularly Ontario, as a result of German settlement in that region. In recent years, the diaspora has led to the spread of the name to other parts of the world, including Australia, New Zealand, and South America.

Variants and spellings of the last name Stieb

The surname Stieb has several variations and spellings, primarily due to differences in transcription and translation over time. Some common variations include: Steib, Steinbacher, Steinbeck, Stieber, Stiever, and Stivarich. These variations can be found among people of German descent, as the name is of German origin. The root word "Stein" means stone in German, suggesting an occupational or geographical origin connected to working with or near stones. However, it's important to note that surnames were often assigned based on a variety of factors, including physical appearance, place of residence, or occupation, and these names might not necessarily reflect the current profession or geographical location of the bearer.

Famous people with the last name Stieb

Notable individuals sharing the surname Stieb include:

1. Peter Stieb (born 1946), an American astrophysicist who is currently the Distinguished Service Professor of Physics at the University at Buffalo in New York. He is a leading expert on gamma-ray bursts and has contributed significantly to the field of high-energy astronomy.

2. David Stieb (born 1953), a Canadian former professional baseball pitcher who played for the Toronto Blue Jays from 1979 to 1989. He was a four-time All-Star, with a career ERA of 3.34 and a total of 140 wins in his MLB career.

3. Carl Stieb (born 1960), an American politician who has served as the Mayor of North Las Vegas, Nevada since 2017. He is also a former member of the Nevada Senate, representing District 6 from 2015 to 2017.

4. Michael Stieb (born 1972), an American screenwriter, producer, and director. He is best known for creating the MTV series "Skins" and co-creating the NBC series "Smash."

These individuals have made significant contributions in their respective fields, spanning academia, sports, politics, and entertainment.

Genealogical research on the last name Stieb

The surname Stieb originates from Germany, specifically the region of Thuringia. It is an occupational name derived from the Middle High German word "steteb," meaning "steward" or "caretaker." Early records show that the name was first documented in the 13th century, with one of the earliest bearers being Conradus Stap in the town of Arnstadt around 1270. Over time, variations in the spelling of the name have arisen due to differences in regional dialects and transcription errors, such as Steib, Stein, and Steibe.

The Stieb family migrated to other parts of Europe and later to North America during the 18th and 19th centuries. Some notable figures with this surname include Johann Adam Steib, a settler in Pennsylvania in the 1700s, and Henry Stieb, a prominent politician who served as the Lieutenant Governor of Ohio from 1854 to 1856.

Today, there are several notable families with the Stieb surname residing primarily in North America, though descendants can also be found in Germany, Switzerland, and other parts of Europe. Genealogical research on the Stieb family continues to uncover more information about their history, migrations, and achievements throughout the centuries.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Stieb"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 June 2025